6 Tips for Communicating More Effectively Through Hearing Loss

Having a thorough conversation can sometimes be a challenge if you or your conversation partner has experienced hearing loss. Missing out on details or having to repeat statements can make conversations frustrating.

Next time, keep these six tips in mind to help your conversations flow more smoothly.

1. Let People Know

Don’t be afraid to let people know about your challenges with hearing. People won’t know to add extra clarity to their speech if they are unaware of your hearing loss.

2. Be Confident

Try to stay confident, and understand that you might not pick up every piece of a conversation. Sometimes it’s okay to let things slide and accept a moderate understanding of the conversation.

3. Look for Visual Hints

Non-verbal communication plays a huge role in interpersonal communication. Giving some extra attention to facial expressions and other gestures can help you pick up some context.

4. Don’t Fake Understanding

If you didn’t understand something, let the other person know rather than pretending. Establishing open and honest communication will help the people with which you’re speaking better accommodate for the hearing loss.

5. Provide Feedback

Give advice to others in your conversation on how they can better speak with you. If you need them to slow down or speak louder, politely notify them.

6. Stay Positive and Relaxed

Despite the potential difficulties, stay positive and relaxed, and don’t shy away from keeping things light. Hearing loss might present some challenges, but don’t let it ruin your communications with others. With the right tools, you’ll get better at helping others learn how best to communicate with you.